Jovian Electrons in the Inner Heliosphere: Opportunities for Multi-spacecraft Observations and Modeling

Abstract

In this paper we explore the idea of using multi-spacecraft observations of Jovian electrons to measure the 3D distribution of these particles in the inner heliosphere. We present simulations of Jovian electron intensities along selected spacecraft trajectories for 2021 and compare these, admittedly qualitatively, to these measurements. Using the data–model comparison we emphasize how such a study can be used to constrain the transport parameters in the inner heliosphere, and how this can lead to additional insight into energetic particle transport. Model results are also shown along the expected trajectories of selected spacecraft, including the off-ecliptic phase of the Solar Orbiter mission from 2025 onward. Lastly, we revisit the use of historical data and discuss upcoming missions that may contribute to Jovian electron measurements.

A Detailed Survey of the Parallel Mean Free Path of Solar Energetic Particle Protons and Electrons

“…Although preliminary studies of this type have been made (e.g., Engelbrecht & Moloto 2021, for galactic cosmic ray transport), there is still considerable scope for refinement, not only in terms of the need for more comprehensive modeling of turbulence and larger-scale plasma parameters, but also of the diffusion coefficients of these particles (Engelbrecht et al 2022a). The study of the transport of SEPs (e.g., Strauss et al 2017a;van den Berg et al 2020van den Berg et al , 2021, as well as of Jovian electrons (see Strauss et al 2024), would also benefit from such an approach. This is, for example, particularly true where the transport of low-energy electrons is considered, given the dependence of these particles' pMFPs on dissipation range turbulence parameters that are observed to vary considerably.…”